Why NUFC were represented at one of UEFA's top conferences alongside Mourinho, Enrique and Allegri

Newcastle United's coach Rafael Benitez looks on next to a picture of Argentinian forward Lionel Messi after a meeting of the Elite football Club Coaches Forum at the UEFA headquerters in Nyon (Image: FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP/Getty Images)

Benitez attended the UEFA Elite Club Coaches Forum in Nyon on a day when he admitted it was “unusual” for a club in second tier football to be involved.

However, Benitez’s attendance ensured that United remain at the heartbeat of some of UEFA’s latest information and allowed the Toon boss to network with some of the world’s best managers.

1.) We move into an international break now, but you’re still working. You attended the UEFA Elite Club Coaches Forum in Nyon now, what are you hoping to get from the conference?

Rafa’s response: “The conference is always very good, very useful.

“I have been a few times before to this meeting. Some of the top coaches from around Europe at the club level are here, there is a lot of talent and experience at the table.

“It is a good chance for us to get together and to have discussions about the subject that affect our clubs and our leagues.

“It can maybe be things like rule changes, refereeing, tactical trends and styles, regulations for domestic and European competitions - it depends what are the main topics for each season that we want to discuss.”

2.) What do you think are the major issues that need debating this year?

Rafa’s response: “We have been talking about subjects such as the away goal rule, substitutions, time-keeping, electronic communication and video assistant referees, as well as discussing statistics and tactics like the influence of possession or the counterattacks, and the impact of substitutes.

“A lot of information, numbers and ideas trying to improve the game.”

3.) It is virtually unheard of for a second-tier club to be represented at a forum like this, isn’t it?

Rafa’s response: “Yes it is unusual, but I think it is very good for Newcastle United because I am representing the club at the top level, at a prestigious meeting like this.

“I can make sure I can bring back to Newcastle experience and information from the conference to help the club.”

4.) It will be a good opportunity to meet up with colleagues including Wenger, Luis Enrique, Lucescu, Emery, Allegri, Ancelotti and other familiar faces. Do you enjoy a good relationship with other elite managers across Europe?

Rafa’s response: “I have good relationships with many managers, we speak often on the phone and we share knowledge and experience with each other which is important and very healthy for all of us.

“It is always good to keep learning and keep improving, sharing ideas and helping others with advice and knowledge.

“I enjoy the conference and I am proud to represent Newcastle United this time.”